Two Phase Treatment

Two-phase orthodontic treatment refers to “Interceptive treatment” (Phase I) followed by “Comprehensive treatment” (Phase II). Interceptive treatment “intercepts” a problem. It is a specialized process that takes advantage of a critical period of jaw growth to maximize the potential for successful tooth alignment in the future. In some cases, correcting tooth and jaw positioning early on encourages more satisfactory dental and facial development during the teen and pre-teen years. The patient will be evaluated for comprehensive treatment (Phase II) once most of the permanent teeth have erupted. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment addresses bite concerns and overall smile aesthetics.

Who Needs Two-Phase Treatment?

Not everyone needs two-phase orthodontic treatment. At the age of seven, we can begin to identify serious misalignment issues, for example an upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough. Children with severe alignment problems can benefit substantially by an early dose of orthodontic treatment. If left untreated, jaw discrepancies and overcrowding will likely get worse over time and may become too severe for braces to be effective. Early orthodontic intervention reduces the need for extraction and other complicated, costly procedures later on.

Benefits of Two Phase Treatment

Overall, the benefits of two-phase treatment are:

  • Improved health, function and aesthetics
  • Reduced need for extraction
  • Reduced need for jaw surgery
  • Improved airways
  • A nicer smile
  • Proper facial growth potential

First Phase (Interceptive Phase)

The first, or early phase of treatment, takes place during the mixed dentition phase. This simply means that the child still has both permanent and baby teeth. During this treatment phase, which usually takes 12-16 months, we correct problems such as overcrowding and functional and skeletal problems with the jaw to encourage a more balanced bite. The treatment may include a combination of appliances, for example, a palatal expander plus braces on existing permanent teeth.

Resting Period

In between the first and second phases, a rest period is observed during which we wait for the remaining permanent teeth to erupt. We will see patients during the resting period, usually once every 3-6 months, to monitor growth and progress.

Second Phase (Comprehensive Phase)

The second phase of treatment begins once all of the permanent teeth have erupted. It usually involves a full set of upper and lower braces. Because the jaw is in a better position and each permanent tooth has found its proper space, often at this stage we can focus on aesthetics alone, building a beautiful smile to last a lifetime.